The Best Skin Balms
Tired of dry, rough, and cracked skin? Instead of suffering through discomfort, it's time to add a powerful and moisturizing product into your regular routine: skin balm. Usually made from oils, waxes, and butters, this popular ointment delivers unparalleled hydration to the skin to add a protective layer and lock in moisture. That way, you won't have to deal with itchy dry patches, cracked lips and heels, or flaky and irritated areas. When you're looking for your new skin balm, we suggest focusing on three essential factors: the ingredients, application method, and size. The classic Bag Balm is a cult favorite that can be used all over your body to infuse any area with extra moisture for smoother, softer skin. And Aveeno's moisturizing balm is our top pick for little ones thanks to its potent yet gentle ingredients that will combat itchiness, flakiness, and eczema. Check out these options and our other favorites to find one that works for you.
Vermont’s Original Bag Balm
Soft as silk
Designed to lock in moisture and minimize dry, cracked, and irritated skin, the balm can be used all over your body. From cracked heels to chapped lips to minor scrapes and cuts, it is a multipurpose product you’ll turn to again and again. Produced since 1899 and known for its iconic green can, this product is a cult favorite for a reason.
Pros:
- Bag Balm isn’t just for people. You can also use it on dogs and other pets to cure dry and irritated skin for a product that’s great for you and your furry friend.
- It’s not greasy like many other balms or jellies. Instead, it absorbs into the skin quickly and doesn’t leave a sticky or tacky feeling behind.
Cons:
- It has a potent smell that some may find mildly unpleasant.
Aveeno Baby Eczema Therapy Nighttime Moisturizing Balm
Protect your baby from rough, dry, and irritated skin with this powerful balm. The hypoallergenic formula is filled with colloidal oatmeal and ceramide to reduce dry skin and protect against eczema for immediate relief. Specially formulated just for babies, the cream is recommended by both pediatricians and dermatologists because it’s free of fragrances, parabens, phthalates, Phenoxyethanol, and steroids, making it safe for little ones. We suggest using it before bedtime for long-lasting relief until morning.
Pros:
- It has a thicker consistency than normal lotions or creams, so it delivers even more moisture. That way, you don’t have to constantly reapply it.
- The one-ounce container is ideal for stashing in a diaper bag, carry-on bag, or backpack. It’s easy to travel with, so you can always have it handy.
Cons:
- It’s very thick, so it may not be the best product to use on the face.
Eau Thermale Avene Tolerance Control Recovery Balm
Skin deep
Designed to calm dry and irritated skin in just 30 seconds, this balm can be used multiple times per day for unmatched relief. Perfect for hypersensitive, reactive, or allergic skin, it will deliver hydration and moisture for up to 48 hours. Made with 15 ingredients and no preservatives, it’s a calming formula that will help restore the skin’s natural barrier and alleviate chronic discomfort.
Pros:
- The balm doesn’t have a fragrance, so it’s the perfect option for those who are scent-sensitive or prefer fragrance-free products.
- Even though it’s very thick and moisturizing, it soaks into the skin quickly, so it won’t leave your skin sticky.
Cons:
- It’s expensive compared to other balms and moisturizers.
Udderly Smooth Hand and Body Moisturizer Cream Bundle
With hand cream and body cream in one convenient set, this product will keep you moisturized from head to toe. The non-greasy formula is designed to absorb quickly into the skin to help hydrate and replenish dry and cracked areas for up to 24 hours. Perfect for babies and adults alike, this product has been developed by pharmacists to help alleviate discomfort and irritation caused by cold weather, exposure to water, or medical conditions. Simply apply the product to your problem area and you’ll experience softer, smoother skin in no time.
Pros:
- The bundle delivers a plentiful supply of this powerful product. With two tubes of hand cream and a large tub of body cream, you won’t run out anytime soon.
- It has a pleasant scent. It isn’t overpowering and doesn’t linger long after application, but just adds a nice and subtle touch.
Cons:
- Over time, the consistency may become a bit runny and more difficult to apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is bag balm?
Bag balm is a skincare product made from lanolin, petrolatum, and 8-hydroxyquinoline sulfate. The combination of ingredients creates a powerful product similar to petroleum jelly that can be used to soften dry and irritated skin.
Is bag balm safe for lips?
Yes. Using bag balm on your lips will deliver added moisture and hydration, helping to prevent chapping and cracking, especially in very cold or dry climates.
Can you put bag balm on an open wound?
Though bag balm does have antiseptic properties, it’s not recommended to apply directly to a large, open wound. It is, however, effective in the treatment of dry and cracked skin, small cuts, and sunburns.
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